Posted On: June 30, 2010

How do I make the creditors stop calling?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer receives this question from many consumers in debt:

How do I make the creditors stop calling?

While the mere thought of filing bankruptcy is daunting to most, some of the key factors as to why it is such a scary topic is the fear of the unknown. One question we get a lot in our San Jose bankruptcy office is 'how do I get the creditors to stop calling?'

If you owe the debt and it is small and you just need more time, consider working with your creditor to come up with a plan to pay the amount in arrears and get back on track. You will find that, in this scenerio, as long as you communicate and fulfill your promise, the calls will stop. That is one way to make the creditors stop calling.

However, if the creditors are calling, and if there are multiple creditors calling due to multiple debts that you owe and feel you cannot manage - considering filing bankruptcy is a valid option. Retaining an experienced bankruptcy attorney will make the creditors stop calling. Actually, and this is the key: they will stop calling you. Once you retain a bankruptcy attorney, you may tell the creditors to stop calling you, and that they must contact your bankruptcy attorney. For example, when clients retain Sagaria Law, we take the pressure off of you and take on your creditors. To learn more about how to get the creditors to stop calling, find out if bankruptcy is the right step for you, or simply to recieve a free consultation to chat about your debt in a friendly, private atmosphere with a qualified bankruptcy attorney, call us today.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 30, 2010

How Do I Stop Foreclosure in San Jose and Fremont?

A San Jose bankruptcy attorney explains how to stop foreclosure in San Jose and Fremont?

Debtors who wish to stop foreclosure proceedings in San Jose, Fremont or anywhere in the Bay Area can do so by filing bankruptcy. Once filed an automatic stay goes into effect preventing a lender from foreclosing on the property. Thus, filing bankruptcy will stop foreclosure proceedings.

Debtors, however, should understand that while filing bankruptcy will stop foreclosure proceedings, unless debtors can afford their home bankruptcy may not be a means to saving their home. Still, bankruptcy can provide a few extra months in a home rent free. These few months can be invaluable for debtors to find new living arrangements and get their financial affairs in order.

If you want to stop foreclosure proceedings contact a San Jose or Fremont bankruptcy attorney immediately...we are here to help!

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.


Posted On: June 29, 2010

How much does it cost to file Bankruptcy in Fremont and San Jose?

A San Jose bankrupty lawyer addresses a common bankruptcy question: How much does it cost to file Bankruptcy in Fremont?

Answer: It depends on what Chapter you file.

Chapter 7 requires a $299 filing fee, Chapter 13 requires a $274 filing fee, and Chapter 11 requires $1,039 filing fee. These fees, however, are only filing fees and do not include attorney’s fees which vary depending upon the complexity of each case.

Thus, to file bankruptcy in Fremont or San Jose will vary depending upon what chapter a debtor files and the complexity of the case. An experienced bankruptcy attorney should be consulted to get an actual cost to file bankruptcy.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 25, 2010

Do I Need Debt Counseling Before Bankruptcy

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer answers whether bankruptcy will help with credit card debt...

The short answer as to whether a Bay Area consumer in debt needs debt couseling before bankrutpcy is: YES! But before you cringe, realize two things:

Debt Counseling before bankrutpcy can only help in the future of your financial success (and that applies to anyone, even those that file bankruptcy due to unforseen circumstances rather than poor money management).

Debt Counseling before bankruptcy is an integral component of the bankuptcy filing process.
debtor education and credit counseling are the two debt counseling courses that bankruptcy filers must complete prior to their bankruptcy being discharged. But don't let the fear of debt counseling stop you from looking into bankrutpcy as an option for you. The courses are easily acessible and can be taken online, over the phone or in person. A responsible bankruptcy firm, such as Sagaria Law can provide resources for debt counseling and walk you through the process. We even have computer stations at our offices so that you may take the debt counseling courses right here.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 24, 2010

Where is the Nearest bankruptcy office in San Jose?

A San Jose bankrutpcy lawyer suggests where to go to learn more about bankruptcy in San Jose.

If you are a consumer in debt in the South Bay and/or Santa Clara County, you may want to seek the advice of a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney in San Jose regarding all of the many questions that arise when you are consdering filing bankruptcy in San Jose.

Yes, you can file bankruptcy in San Jose on your own. However, there are a lot of moving parts to filing bankruptcy in San Jose; such as the paperwork involved, the processes to follow with regard to bankruptcy creditors and bankruptcy court questions that may arise with regard to Chapter 7, Chapter 11 and/or Chapter 13 of the bankruptcy code.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 23, 2010

Can I Short Sale my House in Bankruptcy?

A San Jose bankruptcy attorney answers what many Bay Area consumers ask with regard to short sale of your house in bankruptcy...

Yes and no. Once you file for bankruptcy, regardless of the chapter, your property becomes that of the bankruptcy estate. This means that you cannot sell or transfer your property without the express permission of either the court or the Trustee. If a debtor wants to short sale their house while in bankruptcy, they must file a motion with the court requesting permission to short sale their house.

Often times, an individual will attempt to short sale their home just prior to filing bankruptcy. Usually, the homeowner will contact their agent and submit a cash offer to vacate the house immediately and turn it over to the bank. On occasion this works, but it is likely that the bank will not offer any cash amount to move out immediately.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 22, 2010

How Can Bankruptcy Help With Debt Relief?

A San Jose bankrupty lawyer answers this popular question amongst Bay Area residents in debt: How Can Bankruptcy Help With Debt Relief?

What types of bankruptcy are offered to individuals?
For those seeking debt relief, the bankruptcy code provides for several types of bankruptcy. The most common types of cases filed are those in chapter 7 (liquidation) and chapter 13 (repayment). Chapter 11 is primarily used for business reorganization or individuals who do not meet Chapter 7 or 13 requirements, and chapter 12 is only available to farmers and fisherman.

What does bankruptcy do?
Generally, individuals seeking debt relief will file for bankruptcy, with the ultimate goal being either to have most debts discharged or to structure a repayment plan to pay back a certain amount of the debt and have the rest discharged at the end of the plan. Chapter 7 debt relief is in the form of liquidating all non-exempt assets and using the proceeds to pay back creditors. In chapter 13, the individual must have a constant source of income in order to set up a repayment plan. Often those repayment plans are for only a certain percentage of the actual amount owed to creditors. Both chapters are aimed at helping those filing with debt relief.

What does a discharge provide?
Part of the debt relief goal in bankruptcy is to have as many possible debts discharged. Discharge means that the debtor is no longer personally liable for the debts and those creditors cannot take any action against the debtor in order to seek repayment. This is important for an individual wanting debt relief because once the debts are discharged, the debtor can move forward and not have to worry about making more payments to creditors.

What does bankruptcy do for debt relief?
It is important for individuals to realize that once the bankruptcy proceeding is over and the debtor obtains a discharge, the debtor is no longer liable for those debts. This allows the debtor to move forward in life and begin rebuilding credit and taking active steps to manage finances. The debt relief alleviates stress and other problems associated with pre-bankruptcy worries. Whether the individual files under either chapter 7 or chapter 13, once the discharge is entered there is no longer a need to be concerned about the obligation to repay the debt.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 21, 2010

Will bankruptcy help with credit card debt?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer asks, then answers: Will bankruptcy help with credit card debt?

Absolutely bankruptcy can assist with credit card debt. Most bankruptcy filers actually file bankruptcy due to their credit card debt - it got out of control and they could not meet their obgligatiosn with their income (or in some cases lost their jobs and couldn't pay their creditors and thus got more and more behind). Most Credit card debt, which is also known as unsecured debt, is usually discharged through bankruptcy.

It should also be noted that in bankruptcy, credit card debt is the final debt type to get repaid, if it gets repaid at all. Because it is not secured by any piece of property or collateral, credit card debt is considered more dangerous than other types of debt. Credit card debt will likely be discharged at the end of a bankruptcy allowing the individual a fresh start towards their financial future.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 18, 2010

What is a Monthly Operating Report?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer answers the question: What is a Monthly Operating Report?

Monthly Operating Report - As a component of filing a Chapter 11 bankruptcy debtors are required to file Monthly Operating Reports with the U.S. Trustee’s Office.

The US Trustee's office is often referred to as the watchdog agency for all bankruptcy filing processes. The purpose of the month operating report is for the trustee to be able to see, on a monthly basis, the debtor's ability to pay ongoing obligations in a timely fashion. The monthly operating report tracks taxes, insurance, disbursements, receipts as well as any changes to the debtor's asset and liability circumstances.

The monthly operating report is a system of checks and balances that is required for all Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 17, 2010

What is a Notice of Eviction?

A San Jose bankruptcy attorney explains a notice of eviction...

As most consumers know, if you don’t pay rent or if you in some way breach the terms of the rental agreement with your landlord – you may be subject to eviction. Eviction is a legal action by the landlord to have his tenant removed from the rental property. The tenant receives information on an eviction by notice of eviction.

This notice of eviction process is determined by state law in the US and can vary depending where you live. Tenants that receive a notice of eviction are most often given a certain amount of time to either correct the problem and/or respond to the notice of eviction. Usually this is only a matter of days. An example of a notice of eviction would be if a tenant received the notice of eviction stating that their rent is due within a 3-day time frame. A typical scenario within the notice of eviction would be to either pay their rent by the due date or vacate the apartment or rental property.

If you receive an eviction notice, you have several options. However, ignoring the notice of eviction is not one of them as this will lead to matters resolved in court. If you are in a situation where you cannot pay your rent due to high bills stacking up, loss of income, unforeseen circumstances that leave you unable to meet your financial obligations, including rent, you may want to see an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Filing bankruptcy could be the best option for you.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 16, 2010

What is a Bankruptcy Exemption?

A San Jose bankruptcy attorney examines the bankruptcy exemption...

A bankruptcy exemption is a property or asset that belongs to a debtor which they are able to keep when filing bankrutpcy. Bankruptcy exemptions have to be authorized and are subject to state and federal laws. Once the bankruptcy exemption is authorized, the debtor includes it in their schedule list for their bankruptcy petition with any other bankruptcy exemptions which could include a house (under the Homestead Exemption, for example), a car, home furnishing and/or retirement assets.

If you are in debt and concerned about bankruptcy exemptions - "What do I get to keep if I file bankruptcy?" - then speaking to an experienced bankruptcy attorney may be the best option for you.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 15, 2010

When Should I File Bankruptcy?

A San Jose Bankruptcy Attorney addresses: When Should I File Bankruptcy?

When you are being sued. File bankruptcy to immediately stop a lawsuit and prevent your creditors from garnishing your wages or placing a lien on your home.

When your car is being repossessed or your home foreclosed on. File bankruptcy when you debt is such that your car will be repossessed (or is in the process of) or your home is being foreclosed on. These are signs that you cannot manage your debt! It is important that you seriously consider the call to action: file bankruptcy if you are in these circumstances and do not foresee being able to pay or keep up. If you decide to file bankruptcy, it will often prevent foreclosure and repossession from continuing will enable you to consolidate your bills, including loans. If you want to file bankruptcy under these conditions a Chapter 7 may not be the route, but a Chapter 13 filing could possibly allow you to keep your automobile or house.

When you have more Credit card debt and or Medical Bills than you can manage. File bankruptcy when your medical bills, student debt, and general bills out of your control. If you have trouble paying them off and they are mounting up, you may want to file bankruptcy. A good example is this: It will take you 20 years to repay a $10,000 credit card debt that carries an interest rate of 15%. This is approximate and if you only pay the minimum amount. File bankruptcy under Chapter 7 of the US Bankruptcy Code and wipe out your debts in a reasably short amount of time and start over. (With credit counseling).
If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.


Posted On: June 14, 2010

What is the Purpose of the US Trustee?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer explains the purpose of the US Trustee...

The US Trustee plays a key role with regard to the bankruptcy process, whether it is a Chapter 7 bankruptcy (liquidation, aka the Fresh Start), a Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing (a portion of the debt is paid back, some assets are kept), or a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition (aka a restructure). The US Trustee performs different tasks depending on which of these bankruptcies are brought forth and works within the guidelines outlined by the United States Bankruptcy Code.

The purpose of the US Trustee is to manage the aspects involved with regard to the debtor’s estate and assets. The US Trustee examines and makes determinations that sometimes include selling the debtor assets and answering debtor demands. The reason the US Trustee might manage the sale of debtor assets would be to pay off creditors.

It is required that the debtor be open and honest when working with their US Trustee so that all aspects of their bankruptcy may be properly evaluated in the best interest of all parties involved.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 11, 2010

What is an Automatic Stay?

A bankruptcy lawyer in San Jose explains the Automatic Stay...

Our United States Bankruptcy Code includes the Automatic Stay provision under Chapter 11 bankruptcy. An Automatic Stay must be granted by the bankruptcy judge as part of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing process. When an automatic stay is granted, it means creditors can no longer go after debt incurred by the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filer (a business, company or firm). There for all collection efforts cease under the guidelines of the automatic stay provision within the bankruptcy petition.

The bankruptcy judge is the only one that can lift the Automatic Stay.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 10, 2010

What is Unsecured Debt?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer defines Unsecured Debt...

Unsecured debt is the opposite of Secured Debt with regard to acquiring a loan from a loan or banking institution. Unsecured debt mean there is no collateral or assets attached to the loan, thus making this type of loan scenario more risky for the lender. A result of obtaining a loan that is an unsecured debt is that the loan is more expensive because of the high risk it carries (for the lender). This means the percentage rate of the unsecured debt is higher than with a secured debt .

An example of the opposite of an unsecured debt, which would be a secured debt, is a loan secured by an asset such as a house.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 9, 2010

What Should I Do Before Bankruptcy?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer asks San Jose consumers in debt to consider the question: What Should I Do Before Bankruptcy?

The choice to file bankruptcy is never an easy one. So before bankruptcy, there are many things to consider. Being overwhelmed by a mountain of debt is one sign before bankruptcy comes to mind. Unforseen circumstances such as an accident (medical bills), sudden job loss (rendering you unable to meet billing and mortgage deadlines), student loan debt catching up with you, or a combination are all signs before bankruptcy is considered for most.

Before bankruptcy, everyone should consider meeting with a qualified and experienced bankruptcy attorney to review finances, explore options, and develop an action plan before bankruptcy. This type of planning before bankruptcy can provide a clear picture when things are clouded up my debt and stress. Credit counseling and becoming familiar with the necessary tools to ensure future financial stability are also key before bankruptcy so that after bankruptcy, when the debtor becomes debt-free, they have built a stable path for future financial freedom.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 8, 2010

What is Secured Debt?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer explains: What is secured debt?

Secured debt is an item or items belonging to you, often referred to as assets, that are used as collateral when you seek a loan. Secured debt reduces the risk for the lender when they loan you money, as the secured debt is a “back up plan” if you are unable to fulfill the terms of the loan. An example of secured debt would be mortgage on your house. This type of secured debt would be considered as collateral toward the debt to the lending institution. Again, the secured debt acts as something to be used (or seized) only in the event you default on your loan repayment. This secured debt is to be taken very seriously, as the bank can take it from you and sell it to pay off the debt or the portion of the debt.

Another way to described unsecured debt is security. Security for the lending company that efforts can be made to “made good” on your debt if unforeseen circumstances render you unable to fulfill the obligation of the loan.

Secured debt is the opposite of unsecured debt, which carries much more risk for the lender.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 7, 2010

Chapter 7 FAQ

Question: Will all my property get taken if I file Chapter 7?

Answer: Generally speaking, no. When filing Chapter 7 in California a debtor may use certain exemptions to prevent most if not all of their property from being taken.

Question: Will the trustee come to my house and do an inventory of all my property if I file Chapter 7?

Answer: Probably not. Only if a trustee believes there is property worth liquidating at a debtor’s home. Generally this is not the case.

Question: Can I keep my car if I file Chapter 7?

Answer: Probably. In most cases a debtor can keep their car so long as they can afford the monthly payments if financed, or there isn’t significant equity in the vehicle.

Question: How long does the process take if I file Chapter 7?

Answer: Once a petition is filed the Chapter 7 process only takes a few months.

Question: How can filing Chapter 7 prevent foreclosure?

Answer: Once a petition is filed an automatic stay goes into effect that prevents a creditor from collecting a debt for a specified period of time. By filing Chapter 7 a debtor can stall the foreclosure process in hopes of becoming current on the mortgage or working out a payment plan with the lender.

Question: Can I do a loan modification while in Chapter 7?

Answer: Yes. The lender will need written authorization from your attorney to speak with you about a loan modification. Generally, however, a debtor will probably be out of Chapter 7 before a loan modification is approved. Thus, in most instances where a debtor has fallen behind on their mortgage payments and wishes to file Chapter 7, it is wise not to reaffirm the debt on the home in case the loan modification falls through post bankruptcy.

Question: How long will the Bankruptcy remain on my credit report if I file chapter 7?

Answer: Up to ten years.

Question: How can I live without credit after filing Chapter 7?
Answer: A debtor is required to take two credit counseling courses when filing for Chapter 7. The courses discuss how a debtor can manage their finances post filing.

Question: If I’m married to I have to file Chapter 7 jointly?

Answer: It depends. If a married couple shares the same debt and only one party files for Chapter 7, the debt is discharged only to the filing party. Thus, the non filing spouse would still be responsible for the debt. Thus, married couples should review their debt before deciding whether both parties need to file.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 4, 2010

Three Things to Remember About Chapter 9 Bankruptcy

A San Jose bankruptcy attorney offers 3 things to remember about Chapter 9 Bankruptcy: 1. Chapter 9 bankruptcy of the United States Bankruptcy Code applies to municipalities such as cities, school districts, hospital districts, and others. Municipalities are state Government entities. 2. Some states do not permit Chapter 9 filings without authorization. This involves enacting a specific statute. 3. Chapter 9 Bankruptcy invloves a repayment plan wherein the municipality and its creditors agree to a re-negotiated payment of debts over an extended period of time. If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.
Posted On: June 3, 2010

What is Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer asks What is Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?

Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, by definition, is a bankruptcy filing process designed under the United States Bankruptcy Code for debtors that qualify for reorganizing their accumulated business affair debt, including managing their various assets. Chapter 11 bankruptcies are typically filed by corporations desiring time to restructure their debt. Chapter 11 bankruptcy is considered a more complicated filing, due to the reorganization component wherein the debtor, with the assistance a qualified and experienced Chapter 11 bankruptcy attorney, makes arrangements with their creditors to maintain repayments under a new payment plan that is usually over a longer period of time and structured to meet their current financial abilities.

The Chapter 11 Bankruptcy filer does this by preparing a disclosure statement describing their new proposal and outlining their prospective payment plan for their creditors to review. Their various creditors must vote on the plan, thus coming to a mutually agreed upon payment schedule that allows the Chapter 11 filer the opportunity to revive themselves financially and, in most cases, continue running their business (as opposed to liquidation).

All Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing reorganization plans require final approval from the Bankruptcy Court.

Once their obligations are met under the Chapter 11 bankruptcy guidelines and requirements, Chapter 11 filers obtain the “Fresh Start” as in other bankruptcy filings, such as Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 2, 2010

Do I need a chapter 11 Attorney?

A San Jose bankruptcy lawyer answers whether you need chapter 11 Attorney?

Answer: Yes. Chapter 11 is the most complicated bankruptcy chapter. Any attempt by a debtor to file their own Chapter 11 without the aid of a Chapter 11 attorney would be foolish.

The Chapter 11 process requires extensive paperwork and must be approved by creditors through a voting process. Thus many attorneys who practice consumer bankruptcy do not handle Chapter 11 cases because they are simply too complicated and time consuming. Consequently, a chapter 11 attorney is necessary.

If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.

Posted On: June 1, 2010

What is a Chapter 13 Repayment Plan?

A San Jose bankruptcy attorney discusses Chapter 13 repayment plan...

Chapter 13 bankruptcy repayment plans reorganize a debtor’s financial life, instead of merely liquidating all the debtor’s non-exempt assets as in a chapter 7 bankruptcy. A chapter 13 repayment plan can be as short as three years, but typically last a total of five years or until a debtor’s entire priority debt is repaid, whichever comes first. A chapter 13 plan must be approved by the court over all, if any, creditor objections. One of the most important things a chapter 13 debtor must remember is to begin making payments to the chapter 13 trustee within the first 30 days following the filing of the petition even if the chapter 13 plan has not been approved. Failing to do so may result in a dismissal of the petition or a conversion to chapter 7 bankruptcy.

A chapter 13 plan is based upon a debtor’s household “disposable income.” Disposable income is monthly income that, after all the necessary bills are paid, is leftover and available to the debtor. Once the chapter 13 plan is submitted to the court, the judge will hold a confirmation hearing where the chapter 13 plan is hopefully confirmed. Once confirmed, the chapter 13 plan is binding on the debtor and all creditors. The debtor must then continue to make timely monthly payments to the chapter 13 trustee who will then disburse the payments to the creditors according to the chapter 13 plan.

Chapter 13 bankruptcy repayment plans reorganize a debtor’s financial life, instead of merely liquidating all the debtor’s non-exempt assets as in a chapter 7 bankruptcy. A chapter 13 repayment plan can be as short as three years, but typically last a total of five years or until a debtor’s entire priority debt is repaid, whichever comes first. A chapter 13 plan must be approved by the court over all, if any, creditor objections. One of the most important things a chapter 13 debtor must remember is to begin making payments to the chapter 13 trustee within the first 30 days following the filing of the petition even if the chapter 13 plan has not been approved. Failing to do so may result in a dismissal of the petition or a conversion to chapter 7 bankruptcy.

A chapter 13 plan is based upon a debtor’s household “disposable income.” Disposable income is monthly income that, after all the necessary bills are paid, is leftover and available to the debtor. Once the chapter 13 plan is submitted to the court, the judge will hold a confirmation hearing where the chapter 13 plan is hopefully confirmed. Once confirmed, the chapter 13 plan is binding on the debtor and all creditors. The debtor must then continue to make timely monthly payments to the chapter 13 trustee who will then disburse the payments to the creditors according to the chapter 13 plan.


If you have a question regarding Bankruptcy in San Jose please contact us at 408.279.2288 or visit www.bkanswers.com and we can connect you with one of our experienced San Jose Bankruptcy Attorneys.  After you have spoken with one of our San Jose bankruptcy attorneys we can schedule you a free face to face appointment in our office location nearest you.  Our team of San Jose Bankruptcy Lawyers can assist you with all aspects of your case. If you have questions about filing a chapter 7 bankruptcy, a chapter 11 bankruptcy, a chapter 13 bankruptcy, lien stripping, cram downstopping a foreclosure or wage garnishment, discharging debt, etc. we can help! We have bankruptcy attorneys located throughout California who can assist your financial needs.  Please feel free to complete our free bankruptcy evaluation and we can quickly determine if you are a qualified candidate for bankruptcy.